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Gastroenterologist visit
gastroenterologist · GI doctor · stomach doctor · digestive specialist
A doctor who treats the stomach, bowel, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas.
For belly pain, heartburn, nausea, bloating, constipation or diarrhea, or abnormal liver tests.
⏱ Duration: usually 20 to 40 minutes
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Diary. For a few days, write down what you ate, when it hurt, and what your stools were like.
- Tests. Bring results of upper endoscopy, colonoscopy, ultrasound, and blood tests, if you had them.
What to bring
- Your ID
- Past test results, discharge papers, and reports
- A list of your medicines, or the packs themselves
How it goes
- The doctor asks about your symptoms and diet
- Your tongue and skin are checked
- Your belly is felt while you lie down
- Past tests are reviewed
- Blood tests, an ultrasound, an endoscopy, or treatment are ordered
What you'll feel
- Feeling the belly may be a little unpleasant if it hurts there
- Otherwise, a regular checkup
Afterwards
- The doctor will give you diet advice and prescriptions
- Check the prep for any ordered tests in advance
Contact a doctor straight away if
- Vomiting blood or material like coffee grounds, black stools, or severe belly pain: call emergency services
Common questions
Do I need to fast?
Usually not for the visit. If an ultrasound or endoscopy may be done the same day, check with the clinic.
What should I bring?
Past test results, your medicine list, and notes on diet and symptoms.